System and method to detect changes in health parameters and activate lifesaving measures

ABSTRACT

Certain exemplary embodiments can provide an apparatus wearable by a user. The apparatus can comprise a biometric sensor constructed to generate signals based upon measurements of the user. The apparatus can comprise a processor constructed to determine a significant detrimental change in the user via an algorithm based upon the signals.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.14/748,230 filed Jun. 23, 2015, which claims priority to U.S.Provisional Application No. 62/015,844 filed Jun. 23, 2014, each ofwhich is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.

BACKGROUND 1. Field

Certain exemplary embodiments provide apparatuses, methods, processes,and/or systems related to detecting significant detrimental changes inhealth parameters, and facilitating help for the user. Systems, methods,processes and apparatuses, will most likely benefit people through theuse of preferred embodiments that have widespread popular appeal, andthus can make the most substantial public health impact.

2. Discussion of Related Art

Certain exemplary embodiments address a question, “how can a patient, ora bystander, know when to activate the emergency response?” Thoseskilled in the art will recognize that it is common practice to use aresource rich device, such as a 12-lead, a 5-lead electrocardiogram(ECG, or also known as an EKG), or another device unrelated to theheart, which uses a significant amount of information to make adiagnosis. In the hands of a healthcare professional such as a doctor,or an EMT, a specific diagnosis can be made that pinpoints the problem.It can be extremely difficult to make a specific medical diagnosiswithout such analytical devices. However, a specific diagnosis is notnecessary to acknowledge tempestuous changes in health that should causealarm.

For the first time in history, multi-sensor capable devices (smartdevices) are being popularized on millions of wrists (and other bodyparts) making implementation of lifesaving technology “fashionable,”even if detecting a heart attack, or another health problem, is far fromthe primary reason someone may wear the device.

Embodiments that utilize watch form factor or another wearable biometricdevice, suffer from the reality that it takes a tremendous amount ofcomputational ability and energy to make use of most sensors. Also, itis a problem that current inventions in the field do not fullyconceptualize a system to deal with the difficulty of acquiring aresource poor signal that is so noisy; where the noise is often higherthan the signal.

In addition, wearing such a device that integrates with a system mayjustify a change (increase/decrease) in insurance premiums, such as withlife insurance, health insurance, or other insurances, based on theavailability of more health parameters. In another example, insurancepremiums may also justifiably be lowered as this apparatus and systemlowers the probability of a catastrophic event from happening, andthereby will lower the cost to insurers.

SUMMARY

Certain exemplary embodiments address certain disadvantages mentionedabove and consider additional aspects that have utility for theaforementioned application in the form of apparatuses, methods,processes, and systems.

Certain exemplary embodiments can utilize any wearable biometric devicethat a person could wear in a non-invasive fashion, preferably but notlimited to the form of a commonly worn object. A biometric device cangenerally be considered any apparatus that gathers measurable inputspertaining to an organism. Some examples of commonly worn objects arewatches, eyeglasses, earphones, headphones, armbands, wristbands, anklebands, jewelry (such as earrings, bracelets, necklaces, or rings),and/or other commercialized items. Ideally some people might notconsider the apparatus to have any burden on their lives. The intent ofsuch a device is to so seamlessly fit into the fabric of everyday lives,that this device could possibly be an add-on to another device and neednot necessarily be a device independently designed for detecting healthrelated parameters.

Certain exemplary embodiments can be adapted to detect and alertindividuals of significant detrimental changes to any health relatedparameters while minimally impacting a user's daily life. A preferredembodiment of the apparatus detects significant detrimental changes incardiac and/or neurologic activity, as well as but not limited tochanges in heartbeat, blood pressure, heart rate, cardiac electricalsignature, neurologic electrical signature, pulse transit time or anyother signal generated directly or indirectly by the user's heart orbrain, and/or other biometric outputs; in order to give a patient and/orsurrounding people advanced warning of a health related issue; and/or toactivate the emergency medical system (EMS); and thereby efficientlytransfer himself or herself to the appropriate healthcare professional.Alternatively, the apparatus can also warn a healthcare professionaldirectly, such as but not limited to a physician, a government service,or non-government service, that can notify the user of the significantdetrimental changes in their cardiac and/or neurological activity, andencourage the user to seek medical attention. Such an apparatus can alsoseek the help of a healthcare professional if the patient is unable todo so.

An exemplary biometric apparatus can use any means of detection such as,but not limited to, electric, magnetic, optical, acoustic, pneumatic,thermal, nuclear, mechanical, hydraulic, and/or vacuum, etc. Certainexemplary embodiments can detect a myocardial infarction (Ml), alsoknown as a heart attack, but could also relate to other presentations,conditions, and diseases such as sudden cardiac death (SCD), stroke,seizure, hypertension, hypotension, arrhythmia, vascular aneurysm,congestive heart failure, valvular heart disease, cardiac muscledisease, tumors, Alzheimer's disease, dementia, psychosis, sleepdisorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), coma, headinjuries, infections, and/or death, and many others not explicitlyspecified. Certain exemplary embodiments are not limited to emergencysituations, but can also be used in non-emergent situations, such asroutine check-ups and yearly physicals, as well as in other situations.Those skilled in the art will understand that changes in cardiac and/orneurologic activity can be indicative of other medical problems notdirectly stemming from the heart or brain, and can be used as a valuablediagnostic indicator for many reasons.

Electrocardiography (ECG) and electroencephalography (EEG) areconsidered by some to be the gold standard techniques to monitor a heartand brain respectively, but there are also other useful technologiesthat make use of pulse oximetry, laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF),ultrasound, piezoelectricity, capacitance, temperature, radioactivity,and/or other non-invasive diagnostic technologies. ECG and EEG sensorshave substantial utility in a wearable biometric device for the purposeof assessing changes in a heart or brain due to the quantifiable natureof electric properties. However, the pairing of an ECG sensor, or analternate sensor, with another non-invasive sensor can be useful, but isnot required, for a variety of reasons. One reason is to rule outconditions such as pulse-less electrical activity (PEA), where it ispossible to have an unremarkable ECG, but to have a heart that does notmechanically function—obviously a life threatening issue to a patient.Another reason is that it is possible to greatly enhance the accuracy ofthe preferred embodiment by synergistically incorporating data from twoor more sensors. To detect a user's changes in heartbeat, bloodpressure, heart rate, cardiac electrical signature, neuronal electricalsignature, pulse transit time, or any other signal generated directly orindirectly by the user's heart or brain, or other biometric outputs, thebiometric apparatus can include one or more embedded sensors; forexample, an ECG sensor and/or a laser Doppler flowmeter.

The ECG and/or EEG sensor(s) of an exemplary apparatus can comprise atleast two electrodes, as both modalities operate on the principle ofvoltage difference. To maximize voltage difference for an ECG on thewrist, one electrode could be placed within the case back of the watch,and another could be placed on the band on the substantially oppositeside. To maximize voltage difference for an EEG contained withineyeglasses, one electrode could be placed on each side of a user's headby the ear. Those skilled in the art will recognize that there are avariety of placements that the electrodes can be located to achievesimilar results, especially when considering the ideal proximity of acomplementary sensor that can be similarly placed within the case backof the watch or band, the frame of eyeglasses, or other locations. Itshould be noted that relatively close placement of electrodes, such aspoints around one wrist, can result in noise and difficulty in obtaininga signal.

Therefore, it is advantageous, but not required, to incorporate multipletypes of sensors in order to assist a lifesaving algorithm by creatingmore data points, thus mitigating ECG data noise from the wrist oranother distant point from the heart. By taking an ECG in this manner,many times it has been found that the noise is more pronounced than thetrue signal, thus creating a significant obstacle. The same concepts canbe applied to a noisy EEG with only two electrodes providing data. Inone embodiment where an ECG and a laser Doppler flowmeter are used, thelaser Doppler flowmeter can detect the beats of the heart, and createtight ranges for signal processing to search for the heart's normallyperiodic electrical signals within the repository of collected ECGsignals from the user. For example, it is much easier to look for a Pwave, QRS complex, or T wave, when it exists within certain finiteranges. Moreover, it is far easier to find one of the most pronouncedsignals—the QRS complex—if a determination can be made of the limits ofthe ECG signal (the voltage difference and time), and determine wherethe periodicity of the ECG data lies so signal processing knows how andwhere to search. Having a repository of collected signals from the usercan be useful in cleaning up signals, as it can provide more data andimprove the algorithmic capability for detecting significant detrimentalcardiac and/or neurological changes in a person.

It can also be advantageous, but not required, to create a redundantnumber of sensors because biometric devices disguised as commercializedaccessories, such as watches, are worn in a variety of ways. An exampleof an immediate issue is the fact that people wear their watches ondifferent wrists depending on their preference, or their handedness. Insome cases, it may be necessary to reverse the directionality of thedata from the sensor to capture the correct signal, or to use differentsensors to capture the correct data if one is not adequately contactingthe individual. In the embodiment of a watch, it may be important forthe watch's interface to ask the user what wrist they are wearing thedevice on, or for the watch to make this determination automatically.Even preferences such as the tightness of the watch can affectperformance, but that issue can be mitigated by having sensors at avariety of high probability contact points, such as the case back of thewatch, the left and right interior edges of the watch band, the clasp,the part of the band directly opposite the watch's case back, and othercomponents of the watch. Those skilled in the art can envision how theidea of redundancy broadly applies exemplary embodiments.

A key issue can be the clarity of the ECG signal that can be achievedwhen electrodes are placed in such close proximity to each other,especially when they are distant from the heart. In such embodiments,the use of highly conductive sensors, high fidelity analogue to digital(A/D) converters, signal processing, algorithmic analysis, and primaryprocessors and power supplies make the detection of a noisy ECGpossible. Other embodiments can further clarify the signal or provideother useful information, which can include wearable devices in two ormore places on the body in wireless or wired communication with eachother; for example, a watch with eyeglasses, or a watch with a wristbandon the other arm.

An embodiment of the system that controls the process pertaining to theapparatus is the use of sensors, amplification (for example, anoperation amplifier and/or a lock-in amplifier can be used), simplefiltration (low pass, high pass, band-pass, and notch filters may beused), analog to digital converter, minimal processing only sufficientto govern the aforementioned process or transmit to another apparatus orprimary processor, a wireless transmitter or wired connectivity to theprimary processor, and a power supply large enough to power these itemsare housed within the main biometric apparatus. The main processing,algorithmic calculations, and main power source to supply the bulk ofthese lifesaving activities will take place on the primary processor,which can be a portable smart device, such as a cellular phone, a“cloud,” or remote computers/servers. In an exemplary embodiment, thebiometric apparatus itself can either be responsible for directing acommunication to a call station, or the cloud or a remote processingdevice (such as a smartphone) can be responsible.

Those skilled in the art will understand the complexity of performingmathematical calculations, and filtration, as well as running analgorithm in a resource poor environment such as a wearable apparatus(for example: a watch), which necessitates primary processing on a morepowerful (both computationally, and energetically) device such as asmartphone, or a networked cloud application or Software As A Service(SaaS) application. Primary processing can be used to determine ifsomeone is having significant changes in health related parameters byutilizing or performing any of the following, but not limited to:waveform analysis, filtration (band pass filtration, finite/infiniteresponse filters, adaptive filters, Gabor filters, and/or otherfilters), decimation, Hilbert transformation, deconvolution, waveletdenoising, time series analysis, empirical mode decomposition,confidence intervals, normalization/standardization, significancetesting, stochastic modeling, machine learning (deep learning,artificial neural networks, and other types of learning), iterativereconstruction, fast-Fourier transform (FFT), compressed sensing,expectation-maximization algorithm, averaging, probabilitydistributions, standard deviation, slope, bootstrapping, and/or patternrecognition, etc. Other mathematical or statistical tools can be used toachieve the same goal as certain embodiments without departing from thespirit and scope thereof.

A wearable biometric device has several constraints that might limit itscapability in detecting a significant detrimental change in healthparameters and activating EMS: size, processing power, and/o electricalcapacity, etc. Utilizing a coupled smartphone or SaaS/cloud solution aspart of the system can address such constraints.

Such embodiments might comprise a dependency between the wearablebiometric device and the secondary device with superior computationalpower, energy reserves and signaling capability for EMS activation.Instead of simply just buying a wearable biometric apparatus in the formof a watch, a user may also utilize a tethered smartphone or the like.In another embodiment, a user of the wearable biometric device couldsubscribe to an online cloud service that provides additional processingand EMS activation (without the use of a smartphone), as long as thewearable device is in communication with the cloud service (for examplethrough W-Fi and/or any other form of transmission). From an economicstandpoint, such embodiments can have an advantage as they tie consumersinto a wider ecosystem/service/platform of products and can boostrevenues. Those skilled in the art understand that are a multitude ofways a biometric device can be in communication with other devices orservices to achieve the aforementioned purposes.

The signal on the biometric device can communicate via wired or wirelesscommunication with any supporting device via any practical meansnecessary, which could come in the form of Bluetooth, W-Fi, radio,ZigBee radio, a cellular network, or any other form of electromagneticradiation. As with all biometric data, it is important to safeguard theinformation due to the personal information it carries. In thisembodiment, that can be accomplished by the storage of data on a securemicroprocessor that is architecturally separate from any otherprocessor, and the data can be secured with any feasible level ofencryption. This is especially important for when information is beingbroadcasted wirelessly.

Almost as important as making a correct determination of an imminenthealth issue is the rejection of false alarms. In order for bothcivilians and healthcare professionals to trust the analysis of thisembodiment, it is important that the accuracy is exceedingly high. Inorder to achieve this result, not only is it necessary to have highsignal-to-noise discrimination measures, but also it can be important tohave prohibiting factors. An example of a prohibitive factor could be asensor, possibly through the use of a primary processor, that registersmagnetically, electrically, mechanically, temperately, makes use ofbiometric outputs, and/or uses any other means to detect if the watch isbeing worn. For instance, a magnet that registers that two sides of awatch clasp are engaged and indicates the watch is being worn couldguard against the embodiment from identifying a change in healthparameters symbolic of a cardiac arrest when an individual is simply notwearing the apparatus. A pulse oximeter, laser Doppler flowmeter, and/oranother biometric sensor could be used to detect if the device iscontacting a body in the first place. Some prohibitive factors shouldalso be user controlled, such as a way for a user to permanently ortemporarily turn off the EMS activation feature for any number ofreasons including but not limited to drug use, or a desire foradditional privacy.

False alarms can also be lessened in number by taking into account theconfidence the algorithm has in determining changes in biometricactivity. One simple mechanism to adjust the weighting of differentparts of the algorithm can be to take into account the user's age, race,height, weight, allergies, prescriptions, immunizations, past medicalhistory (for example, pre-existing conditions, if the patient hadsurgery, a stent placed, or any other history), family history, and/orprior sensor usage patterns, etc. Examples can include: it is many timesmore likely a heart attack will occur in a 70 year old than a 20 yearold, or in someone who has an irregular heartbeat.

Once a determination of high confidence is made that a user is havingsignificant detrimental changes in a health parameter (an event), as aresult of primary processing outside the sensing apparatus (for examplein the smartphone or cloud service), an alert can be generated tothereby alert the individual, a caregiver, or the immediate surroundingsof the event, and give them a short period of time (30 seconds forexample) to validate, or disregard the concern. The alert can come inany form, including but not limited to an audible alarm, a visual queuelike a strobe light or red/blue flasher, vibration, etc. The alert canalso initiate a text message, or phone call alert to appropriate partiesthrough a smartphone or a service. A simulation mode can be exercisedthrough initial setup training to practice this scenario for theindividual or caregiver. With either an affirmative confirmation or thelack of a response, certain exemplary embodiments can initiatecommunication with a call station with some combination of the usersname, gender, GPS coordinates and location, permanent address (oraddress they spend most time at), meta-data, and/or other parametersdiscussed in “information input” within the detailed description of thepatent that could either allow a call station to triage a patient, or itcould immediately activate EMS in a time-saving manner that would nothave otherwise been possible without a biometric detecting apparatus incommunication with the proposed system. When an alert is issued, theuser or call station can initiate a two-way or one-way communication inthe form of an audio and/or video connection through the apparatus tocheck on the user, more adequately preparing EMS for the situation athand.

If a low, but a still significant confidence interval were calculated,certain exemplary embodiments can alert the user, or other parties ofits findings, and ask the user what should be done. If the user declinesthe alert, nothing would be done. However, if either the patientrequests help, or if no action is taken by the user within a shortperiod of time, a communication would be initiated to a call station;ideally (but not imperative), the apparatus and system can autonomouslyuse the algorithm to determine an emergency situation, and activatelifesaving measures through EMS activation. However, in otherembodiments, a government or non-government call station or even ahealthcare professional could be tasked with reviewing possibly relevantchanges in health related parameters with or without the algorithm.Revenue to pay for costs can be either recovered from any combinationof: the price of the system, a service charge from a data plan, aservice subscription charge, an emergency tax such as enhanced 911(E911), and/or insurance premiums, etc.

Calibration can occur simply and with minimal action from the user, or amore advanced-calibration can occur with user cooperation. While notrequired, having reliable baseline biometric data gathered in aconventional way from two very different parts of the body, such as asignal from the wrist of one hand and the wrist of another hand, canincrease the capability of exemplary algorithms to differentiate asignal from noise in a resource poor environment and boost thealgorithms confidence in its determination of changes in health relatedparameters requiring EMS activation. Although not required, there couldbe an advanced-calibration where the user wears the biometric apparatuson one extension of their body, and touches the device with theiropposing hand, thus contacting a sensor that completes a circuit aroundtheir body. Calibration can occur much like how there is an initialtraining phase in most fingerprint scanners. Consequently, certainexemplary embodiments can utilize baseline data obtained from anotherapparatus to aid in calibration, such as a phone, and/or any otherpaired or unpaired biometric apparatus, including a resource richdevice.

Multiple users can use certain exemplary biometric apparatuses;biometric readings from such can be logged per user if there aremultiple users for the apparatus. Alternatively, a second wearableapparatus, such as an RFID tag, badge, implant, or anotherclose-proximity identifiable signature can be used to determine theactive user. This will insure that the calibration and detection phasesdo not mislead the lifesaving algorithm if multiple people use theapparatus and system.

Disclaimers may need to be provided to user during use, and during theinitial opt-in confirmation, especially if used as a “medical device,”similar to a prescription or a durable medical equipment only beinguseable by the patient. A preferred embodiment is to use the sensorapparatus and alerting/EMS activation system as a utility to moreproactively get help, not to make a diagnosis.

Various exemplary embodiments—apparatuses, methods, and systems—areillustrated in (but not solely limited to) the drawings. The followingdescriptions of each figure give more explanations about the disclosedapparatuses, methods and systems. Note that the figures are for thepurpose of illustration. Actual physical implementation may take aplethora of different forms. All changes and substitutions within thespirit and technical scope of the disclosed embodiments are indeedencompassed in the present application. These and other objects andadvantages of the disclosed embodiments will no doubt become obvious tothose of ordinary skill in the art.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A wide variety of potential, practical, and useful embodiments will bemore readily understood through the following detailed description ofcertain exemplary embodiments, with reference to the accompanyingexemplary drawings in which:

FIG. 1a shows an apparatus in the form of a smartwatch that embodies atleast one of the following biometric sensors: ECG, pulse oximeter, laserDoppler flowmeter, or other biometric sensors;

FIG. 1b shows an apparatus in the form of a different design of asmartwatch that embodies at least two of the following differentbiometric sensors: ECG, pulse oximeter, laser Doppler flowmeter, orother biometric sensors;

FIG. 1c shows a design for a watch band with links that embodies atleast one of the following biometric sensors: ECG, pulse oximeter, laserDoppler flowmeter, or other biometric sensors;

FIG. 2 shows an apparatus in the form of an armband that embodies atleast one of the following biometric sensors: ECG, pulse oximeter, laserDoppler flowmeter, or other biometric sensors, and also depicts a way toincrease the clarity of the signal;

FIG. 3a show an apparatus in the form of eyeglasses that embodies atleast one of the following biometric sensors: ECG, pulse oximeter, laserDoppler flowmeter, or other biometric sensors;

FIG. 3b shows a side view of an apparatus in the form of eyeglasses thatembodies at least one of the following biometric sensors: ECG, pulseoximeter, laser Doppler flowmeter, or other biometric sensors;

FIG. 4 shows a method for steps a user may complete in order to have anengaged apparatus, and a method for panic activation;

FIG. 5a shows a flowchart of the system that illustrates what, how, andwhere elements of the system function. It also details processes thatconnect the system;

FIG. 5b shows a magnification, extension, and elaboration of the systemdepicted in FIG. 5 a;

FIG. 6 shows a representative ECG of a healthy heartbeat;

FIG. 7 shows a schematic of how apparatuses can be in communication withprimary processors and integrate into the system;

FIG. 8 demonstrates two signal processing methods in detail involving atleast one biometric sensor, adaptable to different types of sensors;

FIG. 9 demonstrates a signal processing method in detail involving atleast two biometric sensors;

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an informationdevice 10000; and

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of an exemplary embodiment of a method 11000.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIG. 1a , there is shown a wearable biometric apparatus 1,in the form factor of a watch that functions as part of the system of apreferred embodiment. The biometric device illustrated is composed ofcase 2 (a casual observer would call this the rim of the watch), caseback 13, display 3 (either analog or digital, and potentially a touchscreen), band 4, power supply 15, and clasp 5, which are all parts ofexemplary wristwatches. The biometric apparatus can comprise at leastone or more biometric sensor(s) 6, which may be an ECG sensingelectrode, or any other technology mentioned within this application, ora similar technology (note: dotted lines in the figures representplacement on planes not visible from the observer's point-of-view). Allsensors on the apparatus, including sensor(s) 6, can be designed in sucha way as to improve the utility of the health related data and thecomfort for the user. Within case 2 there exists an electronic area 14that can comprise a minimal processor sufficient to govern theaforementioned process and/or transmit to another apparatus or primaryprocessor, a wireless transmitter and/or wired connectivity to theprimary processor, and a power supply large enough to power these items,for the purpose of handling input signals from the various biometricsensors, such as sensor(s) 6, and any other systemic reasons. Multiplecopies of sensors (even the same type of sensor) can assist in obtaininga sufficiently clear signal, which is represented by multiple placementsof sensor(s) 6. Sensor(s) 6 can take any location, size, shape, texture,material (alloy, impregnated material, and/or coating, etc.), etc., thatmeets the goals of preferred embodiments. In addition to sensor(s) 6adding an additional component to apparatus 1, parts of the apparatusthemselves can be made into a sensor. For example, clasp 5 in itsentirety, or through a coating that only contacts the users arm, can bea sensor, such as an ECG sensing electrode. If sensor(s) 6 is aconductive lead for an ECG, it is recommended but not required to bemade of a highly conductive material, such as titanium nitride (TiN),titanium carbide (TiC), or titanium carbo-nitride (TiCN), which can beplated using known chemical or physical vapor deposition or othertechniques. Another highly conductive material that can be utilized issilver-silver chloride (Ag/AgCl). While Ag/AgCl is possible to use inthis embodiment, it might not be as desirable due to the residue itleaves behind and the need to constantly replace the coating, which canbe somewhat problematic. Band 4 can be made out of any suitablematerial, for example leather or stainless steel, but should either beelectrically insulated, or have a relatively high electrical resistance.Sensors that detect changes in health related parameters should beprotected from water with a hydrophobic coating or another waterproofingmeasure, unless the sensor is intended to measure fluids, such as sweat.

A user wanting to operate apparatus 1 will open clasp 5, comfortably putthe apparatus on their body, and close clasp 5, which should allowsensor(s) 6 and/or sensor(s) 11 (FIG. 1b ), which may be part of theclasp itself, to contact the user's body. If sensor(s) 6 comprises anECG sensor, it should contact the user in at least two locations,preferably as far apart as possible, such as within or on case back 13,and on the interior edge facing the user of clasp 5. Case 2 is shownwith both solid and dashed lines to illustrate dimensionality. Input andoutput functions of apparatus 1 can take place via display 3 (which canbe a capacitive touch screen), by microphone 7, video camera 10, and/orany number of other means, including but not limited to action button 9.Display 3 can also render data feedback related to health parameters, ornon-medical functions of the apparatus, such as text messages, or thetime. Apparatus 1 can utilize speaker 8 to obtain audio output, inaddition to feedback on display 3, or another device. If a two-way orone-way communication is warranted, video camera 10, microphone 7,and/or speaker 8 can be utilized, which can be useful in the event of anemergency.

In order to initiate calibration more accurately than what the systemmay be capable of autonomously conducting, calibration can be conductedwhile wearing the apparatus by gripping case 2 on opposite sides (withthe opposing hand), which can be another form of biometric sensor 6, ora user can press their opposing finger against any one of theappropriate sensor(s) 6.

Referring to FIG. 1b , there is another example of a wearable biometricapparatus 1, in the form of a watch, which can function as part of thesystem of a preferred embodiment. FIG. 1b demonstrates the possibilityof multiple types of sensors working synergistically to achieve the aimsof this application by combining sensor(s) 6, which can be an ECGelectrode, and sensor(s) 11 (shown with hypothetical sensing wavescoming out of sensors), which could be one or more of different types ofbiometric sensors, such as a laser Doppler flowmeter or another type ofsensor. Sensor(s) 11 can take any location, size, shape, texture,material (alloy, impregnated material, and/or coating, etc.), etc. thatmeets the goals of the preferred embodiment. FIG. 1b shows two or moresensor(s) 6 on the underside of case 2 at substantially opposite sidesof each other, which contrasts one possibly large sensor(s) 6 in FIG. 1a, due to the possibility of solely acquiring a signal in that fashionwith those two contact points. The apparatus can also be controlled (orcalibrated) by action button/sensor 12, (which could also double as abiometric sensor or can be pushed), or another type of sensor(s) 6 (suchas a capacitive sensor) on the exterior side of band 4, and/or display3. If action button/sensor 12 is also a sensor, it can be used tocalibrate the system more accurately than what the system may be capableof autonomously conducting. While wearing the apparatus, a user canpress their finger on action button/sensor 12 from their opposing handwhen prompted in a way described much like in FIG. 1a . The embodimentillustrated in FIG. 1b comprises an electronic area 14 and a powersupply 15.

Referring to FIG. 1c , there is an example of a variation of how abiometric sensor can be incorporated into the band 4 of a watch, or someother apparatus with a band or band links. On some, or all of the linkscontain upon or within them biometric sensor(s) 6, comprised of a highlyconductive material such as TiN, which are in contact with the user ofthe apparatus. Such an embodiment can improve the sensitivity of thesensor and the comfort for a user.

Certain exemplary embodiments provide a system, which can comprise anapparatus wearable by a user (e.g., wearable biometric apparatus 1 ofFIG. 1a ). In certain exemplary embodiments, the system can beconstructed to: analyze and compare a plurality of snapshots with eachother; and/or compare at least one of the plurality of snapshots to astandard snapshot.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the apparatus is worn on a wrist ofthe user (e.g., wearable biometric apparatus 1 of FIG. 1a ). In otherembodiments, the apparatus can partially surround a head of the user(e.g., wearable biometric apparatus 301 of FIGS. 3a and 3b ). Theapparatus can comprise one or more of:

-   -   a biometric sensor (e.g., biometric sensor(s) 6 of FIG. 1a )        constructed to generate signals based upon measurements of the        user;    -   a plurality of biometric sensors (e.g., biometric sensor(s) 6 of        FIG. 1a );    -   a user interface (e.g., display 3 of FIG. 1a ) that causes the        apparatus to capture a reading from the biometric sensor;    -   a processor (e.g., a processor comprised by electronic area 14        of FIG. 1a ) constructed to provide information to an entity;    -   a power supply constructed provide energy to the apparatus, the        power supply comprising a charging mechanism;    -   a signal filter constructed to average signals from the        biometric sensor;    -   a power supply constructed provide energy to the apparatus, the        power supply can comprise a charging mechanism;    -   a signal filter constructed to average signals from the        biometric sensor;    -   a medical device mode and a non-medical device mode; and/or a        wireless transmitter (e.g., a wireless transmitter comprised by        electronic area 14 of FIG. 1a ), the wireless transmitter can be        constructed to wirelessly transmit the signals to an information        device via a network, the information device can be constructed        to:    -   determine a confidence level associated with the signals;    -   determine a significant detrimental change in the user via an        algorithm based upon the signals and the confidence level, the        significant detrimental change determined via decision tree;    -   relay information concerning the significant detrimental change        to the apparatus.    -   receive information concerning an established confidence        interval for the averaged signals; and/or    -   receive information concerning predicted timing of a signal from        the biometric sensor based upon a pulse oximeter obtained via at        least one of:    -   the pulse oximeter of the user bounded by a QRS complex; and/or        the QRS complex can be obtained via by pulse waves bounded by        the pulse oximeter; etc.

Depending on a recommended action determined by a decision tree, theapparatus and/or the information device can either automatically notifyan emergency medical system concerning activation of the apparatus orprompt the user to activate the apparatus with the emergency medicalsystem. Responsive to user signals from the user, the apparatus can beconstructed to calibrate the biometric sensor based upon demographicaland medical information received from the user. The calibration cancomprise a determination of differences between a signal of thebiometric sensor and a standard.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the biometric sensor can be:

-   -   an electrocardiogram sensor that can be constructed to couple to        the user in at least two locations and/or comprise at least one        of a titanium nitride lead, a titanium carbide lead, and/or a        carbo-nitride lead;    -   one of a plurality of electrocardiogram sensors that        substantially surround an arm of the user;    -   a heart rate monitor;    -   a laser Doppler flowmeter;    -   a capacitive sensor that comprises two electrodes constructed to        be mounted on substantially opposite sides of a body part of the        user;    -   selectively calibrated based upon information from one or more        biometric sensors either individually or as a group;    -   calibrated based upon sensor signals from a plurality of        locations of a body of the user;    -   and/or    -   a sensor that comprises a hydrophobic coating; etc.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the algorithm can analyze a snapshotof the signals and/or utilizes photoplethysmogram sensor data. Thealgorithm can be constructed to:

-   -   determine that the significant detrimental change in health        parameters has occurred in the user based upon changes in a QRS        complex;    -   determine that a stroke has occurred based upon ST depression;        and/or    -   be automatically changed based upon a selective count of        biometric sensors in the system; etc.

The apparatus can be constructed to:

-   -   automatically notify the user of the significant detrimental        change;    -   prompt the user to submit past, family, and social history        information via a user interface of the apparatus or the        processor;    -   receive past, family, and social history information;    -   automatically communicate past, family, and social history of        the user to the emergency medical system;    -   create a calibration profile for health parameters of the user        based upon information from the biometric sensor, the        calibration profile constructed for use in calibrating the        biometric sensor;    -   allow the user to cancel an information transmission to the        emergency medical system;    -   automatically prompt the user for information responsive to        information from the biometric sensor;    -   receive profile information for a predetermined activity from        the user;    -   determine a velocity of the user;    -   be activated on the emergency medical system and transmit        medical information concerning the user to the emergency medical        system responsive to a signal from the user requesting panic        activation;    -   measure brain waves of the user;    -   transmit a signal responsive to the user touching a case of the        apparatus;    -   request a measurement from the biometric sensor responsive to a        detected predetermined motion of user;    -   transmit a signal responsive to the user pressing a finger        against the biometric sensor;    -   render a medical diagnosis when in medical device mode;    -   render a warning of the significant detrimental change when in        non-medical device mode;    -   use data from the plurality of biometric sensors to account for        disturbances or to boost data certainty;    -   render substantially all data from the biometric sensor over a        predetermined time period;    -   render the confidence level; and/or    -   render an indication of a deviation of data from the biometric        sensor from a baseline value or a population norm; etc.

The significant detrimental change can be a heart condition determinedbased upon a ST segment elevation.

Referring to FIG. 2, there is an example of a different type of wearablebiometric apparatus 201, in the form of an armband, with multiplesensor(s) 6, which can be an ECG sensor that can be used with thepreferred embodiment. Apparatus 201 can comprise an electronic area 14that can comprise a minimal processor sufficient to govern theaforementioned process or transmit to another apparatus and/or primaryprocessor, a wireless transmitter and/or wired connectivity to theprimary processor, and a power supply large enough to power these items,for the purpose of handling input signals from the various biometricsensors, such as sensor(s) 6, and any other systemic reasons. While anembodiment need not necessarily take on this form, multiple small ECGelectrodes can strike a balance between maximizing ECG signal (due tothe surface area covered), and minimizing noise (due to the small size);however, such embodiments can add to the cost of the apparatus.Apparatus 201 is shown with ECG electrodes surrounding the inside of thearmband. Having sensors farther apart from each other, such as above andbelow the arm can provide a better signal than if the sensors wereplaced more closely together. In addition, due to the number of sensorsused in a tight proximity, it is possible to vectorize the electricsignal and get directionality of the signal, which may yield even moreuseful data. Apparatus 201 and sensor(s) 6, as well as other sensors andembodiments, can be made somewhat stretchable and elastic, whileremaining in connection with internal circuitry, as to permit moreactive embodiments. Apparatus 201 can of course be made of other sensorsand combinations of sensors.

Referring to FIG. 3a and FIG. 3b , there is another exemplary embodimentin the form of apparatus 301, which are eyeglasses. FIG. 3a shows afront view of a person wearing eyeglasses as shown with sensor(s) 6existing in multiple places such as on either side of the ridge of thenose where eyeglasses nose pads typically mount a nose, and on thenasion (top of the nose), where the eyeglass bridge mounts a nose insome designs. FIG. 3b shows a side profile view of a person wearingeyeglasses with a temple 302 and a temple tip 303 of the eyeglassesclearly present. FIG. 3b only shows one side profile of apparatus 301and that every item and use mentioned on this side profile view ofapparatus 301 may exist on the other side. Apparatus 301 may have atleast one sensor on temple 302, which is illustrated as sensor(s) 6, orit may have at least one sensor on temple tip 303, illustrated assensor(s) 6 (but contacting the back of the ear and/or the side of thehead). Moreover, the entire temple 302 and/or the entire temple tip 303can act as sensor(s) 6. In most uses of apparatus 301, temple 302contacts the temporal region of the head, and temple tip 303 contactsthe back of the ear in addition to the temporal region of the head. Eachaforementioned contact point, especially the temporal region, could bean excellent place to use ECG or EEG sensors, which can be used tomonitor heart and also brain waves (as another biometric health factor),as well as other types of sensors. Multiple sensor(s) 6 are illustratedon the side profile view of the person wearing eyeglasses to illustratethat multiple sensors may be needed to compensate for movement, sizing,or other factors to optimize the signal. Within apparatus 301 thereexists an electronic area 14 that can compromise a minimal processorsufficient to govern the aforementioned process and/or transmit toanother apparatus or primary processor, a wireless transmitter and/orwired connectivity to the primary processor, and a power supply largeenough to power these items, for the purpose of handling input signalsfrom the various biometric sensors, such as sensor(s) 6, and any othersystemic reasons.

FIG. 4 shows a method for steps a user may complete in order to have anengaged apparatus 401, and a method for panic activation. In certainexemplary embodiments, a user may have to complete several steps inorder to have an engaged apparatus 401. If the user does not completeone or more steps, the apparatus can become a disengaged apparatus 403.An engaged apparatus 401 is one in which EMS activation can occur byusing the system. A disengaged apparatus 403 is one in whichcommunication with a call station 509 of FIG. 5a and/or EMS activation510 of FIG. 5a will not occur when using the system (unless panicactivation is initiated, but all previous steps may still take place).The apparatus may continue to perform methods via elements 501 to 508 ofFIG. 5a to detect inputs and store data for observation or for lateruse.

To have an engaged apparatus 401, training 404 can be given to the userof the apparatus, which can comprise a brief education session of whatthe apparatus is capable of, how it works, and how it integrates intothe system. Training 404 can occur on the apparatus, or off theapparatus, for example, on a paper brochure, or on a multimedia device(such as a smartphone, computer, web browser, etc.).

The user can then complete information input 405, where the user caninput relevant health parameters such as: age, race, height, weight,allergies, prescriptions, immunizations, medical legal orders such as DoNot Resuscitate (DNR), Power Of Attorney (POA), medical health careproxy, medical directives (such as organ donation), past medical history(for example, pre-existing conditions, if the patient had surgery, inparticular cardiovascular related surgery or procedures, such as a stentplaced, or pacemaker, or any other history), and family history.Information Input 405 may also request a user to input their name,gender, permanent address (or address they spend most time at), and willcontinuously repopulate itself with the GPS coordinates and location ofuser. Information input 405 can be used to inform a call station withdetailed medical information about the caller, which may be highlyrelevant to the nature of the emergency, and to adjust how the algorithmhandles biometric data and calculates the confidence it assigns to itsresults. For example, a patient who indicates in their past medicalhistory that they have had a myocardial infarction may cause thealgorithm to allow smaller detrimental changes in health relatedparameters to trigger an alert, or it may boost the confidence in itsfindings that a significant detrimental change in health relatedparameters has occurred once changes are detected. In addition, thealgorithm could easily make use out of data from information input suchas a patient indicating a high weight and low height (a high body massindex), thus increasing the risk factors for certain conditions, such asstroke. The apparatus, or an associated primary processor, can promptthe user to update the profile they entered into information input tokeep it as current as possible. While information input 405 can beinputted by the user, information input 405 can also be populated fromother inputs, such as but not limited to medical records, devices suchas pacemakers, internal defibrillators, smart scales, smart bloodpressure, glucometers, other wearable/non-wearable biometric devices,and/or existing shared electronic medical records, etc.

Next, the user can initiate calibration 406 of the apparatus, which cantake a variety of forms. In the most basic form of calibration 406, theuser will be asked to minimize and/or maximize movement and stay in arelaxed state for a brief period of time. The system will attempt tocreate baselines for each sensor. In addition, it is also possible forthe system to find the differences for each sensor's data between theindividual user, and the average population the patient falls into (asdetermined by information input). In more advanced forms of calibration406, a user can use multiple points of their body, especially for ECGcalibration, with some examples offered in FIG. 1a and FIG. 1 b.

Each individual biometric apparatus needs to be calibrated for itsbiometric sensors to understand how to best utilize the signals, thenthe use of multiple biometric sensors can help to calibrate one another(you may want to get a confirmatory reading from two or more sensors).By comparing more devices together, the accuracy of each individualdevice can potentially be improved. At the algorithm level, thealgorithm may want to determine the usefulness or the ways in which itcan use a variety of biometric inputs. For example, sometimes the usermay wear a varying number of apparatuses, and this may change theconfidence levels for the algorithm. Calibration data can also becreated by using multiple apparatuses individually and/or concurrently,it can be loaded into the apparatus from other devices, and/or it cancome from sources that have past biometric data on the patient, etc. Auser can be prompted for situational calibration at a later point if itbecomes apparent to the system that the user may be situationally(temporarily) performing an activity that significantly changes thephysiology of the user for a limited period of time, such as but notlimited to intense physical activity. In some situations, situationalcalibration could auto-engage, for example, if the apparatus'saccelerometer or gyroscope detected movement consistent with running(through the system), the system could create a calibration profile fortypical health parameters of the user while running. Alternatively, auser can alert the system of an activity a user is performing, such asmountain climbing, and the user can create a health parameter profilepertaining to that activity. The more scenarios the apparatus and systemexperiences, the better calibrated the apparatus will become.Calibration information can be useful to the algorithm. A user cansatisfactorily complete calibration 406, which will be determined by thesystem. For active users, one method the system can use to determine ifit is calibrated, is to see if it can detect significant, but notdetrimental changes in health related parameters, such as when a userruns.

Lastly, the user can complete an opt-in 407, which can take a variety offorms. In the preferred embodiment, the opt-in can comprise disclosuresand disclaimers that the patient can acknowledge and accept,respectively. Depending on the patient's demographics and risk factorsrecorded in the information input, there may be a fewer or greaternumber of terms to accept. The opt-in 407 can be acknowledged oraccepted in a variety of ways, such as but not limited to by opening theproduct, by purchasing the product at the point of sale with asignature, or by pressing a button on the apparatus in an introductorymenu. Opting-in can also indicate that the user has completed training,information input, and/or calibration successfully.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the user at any time can initiate acommunication with call station 509 (FIG. 5a ) by engaging a panicactivation mechanism, such as a button or gesture, signaling trouble(thus making the apparatus become engaged). Panic activation can be atremendously useful function when a user recognizes that they are in anemergency and they need immediate attention, whether it be police,medical, fire, or another type of emergency. In the preferredembodiment, panic activation will send an alert to call station 509(which will eventually be passed onto EMS if help is needed) with anyinformation already registered in the apparatus' database frominformation input; and the apparatus will initialize the detection ofhealth parameters (if not already initialized), and make available knownhealth information and parameters to the call station (and the EMS) inreal time, so that the EMS can be best prepared to respond to theemergency—a vast improvement over prior art.

Referring to FIG. 5a , there is a flowchart of system 500, which detailsthe system that occurs on the biometric apparatus, externally on theprimary processor, and outside of both the biometric apparatus andprimary processor (for example, the call station 509). The biometricapparatus starts by using at least one sensor(s) 501 to detect a healthparameter. The information gathered from the sensor(s) 501 is thenamplified and filtered at 502. Amplification and simple filtration 502might not necessarily happen in a strict order, as the exact process ofamplification and filtration can vary from sensor to sensor, or for amultitude of reasons to optimize certain embodiments. Information can beconverted from an analog state to a digital state using analog todigital converter 503. Elements 502, and 503 may be interchangeabledepending on the technical requirements of 501, 502 and/or 503. Elements501-503 can be comprised by the biometric apparatus, because theyrequire little to no computational power, and a minimal amount ofenergy. In the spirit of optimizing energy usage on the biometricapparatus and maximizing processing power, digital signals are thencommunicated to the primary processor from the biometric apparatus inorder to undergo signal processing 504. Communication outputs of 502and/or 503 to the primary processor system input of 504, can happen viaany means, such as wired, or wireless, as previously described in thesummary.

Signal processing 504 can vary from a complex to a simple process,depending on how noisy the signal is that was originally picked up bysensor(s) 501, and can use, but is not limited to, any mathematical orstatistical tools mentioned in the summary and later further described.Multiple arrows are illustrated to show independent sources of data, andhow those data outputs may be separated (except in the event where oneof the sources of data combines information to create a new source ofdata), until they all get inputted to algorithm 505. For example, an ECGsensor on the apparatus will be independently amplified, filtered, A/Dconverted, and signal processed (except in the event where one of thesources of data combines information to create a new source of data),until its data gets merged into the algorithm where a decision is made.Each sensor can have its own process of sensing from items 501-504.

Algorithm 505 occurs on the primary processor and is responsible forcompiling all of the data streams from signal processing 504 (also onthe primary processor), and making a determination as to whether or nota significant detrimental change in health parameters have been detected506. While the algorithm may be capable of making a specific diagnosis,for the purposes of simply detecting an emergency, the preferredembodiment will only detect the occurrence of significant detrimentalchanges, which is far easier to detect than where or what the specificproblem is. There are a nearly limitless number of scenarios that can beclassified as “significant detrimental changes.” Having the knowledgethat a significant detrimental change in a health parameter has occurredis an excellent reason to seek medical attention.

Algorithm 505 may operate by analyzing snapshot(s) 515 of biometric data(of varying lengths), comparing the snapshot(s) 515 to decide if asignificant detrimental change in health related parameters hasoccurred, and also by considering data from information input 1005 ofFIG. 10 (as previously described). A snapshot 515 (see FIG. 5b ) is aportrayal of data in a moment of time. Database 514 (see FIG. 5b ) maystore and retrieve snapshot(s) 515 (see FIG. 5b ) for use by algorithm505.

With an ECG, changes in the amplitude of the QRS complex (the voltagepotential) as well as prolongation (time) of the complex from one timepoint to another could be indicative of alarming developments in theheart. ST segment elevation, a sign for ST segment elevation myocardialinfarction (STEMI), can be recognized by comparing normal baselinepatient data to new information, which by comparison, may show STelevation. On the other hand, ST depression may indicate the possibilityof a stroke. Additional examples of changes that can be observed with anECG are detailed later, within FIG. 6. With a pulse oximeter or laserDoppler flowmeter, changes in pulse or oxygen saturation could indicateother causes for alarm, especially when corroborated with data fromother sensors.

If no significant detrimental changes in health parameters have beendetected, nothing is done at element 507, which means the systemcontinues to function in its normal state without issuing an alert 508.If a significant detrimental change in health parameters is detected,then an alert 508 is issued by the primary processor unit, which canexpress itself through the biometric apparatus, or through any meansaccessible to the primary processor. The alert can take on multipleembodiments, including but not limited to: vibrating, flashing withvibrant lights (such as but not limited to a red and blue strobe light),displaying text or graphics, or initiating phone calls, text messages,pagers, or other modes of communication. The intent of alert 508 is tocapture the user's attention, surrounding people's attention, anddistant parties who have the patient's consent to be informed (family,caregivers, and/or health professionals, etc.). Depending on thecircumstance, which will be detailed later, call station 509 will becontacted which can initiate EMS activation 510. Alternatively, for anyreason, the patient can initiate panic activation 408 and get theattention of the call station immediately without any algorithmicassistance. EMS Activation 510 implies that help is on the way be itmedical, fire, police, or another emergency agency, or that the patienthas been appropriately advised how to handle the emergency (for examplethrough two-way communication).

Call station 509 can take on a variety of forms including a governmentservice, like a 911 dispatcher, a non-government service, such as analarm company, or a health care professional directly. Communicationfrom the apparatus to the call station can include but is not limited toany data from elements 501-508, information input 405, and a videoand/or audio link from the preferred embodiment. A preferred embodimentmay have a live audio link and/or a live video link from the callstation to the patient while the emergency is happening to efficientlyactivate EMS, council the patient, and find out as much relevantinformation as possible.

Referring to FIG. 5b is system 500, which is a magnification, extension,and elaboration of system 500 that exists from elements 505-510 on FIG.5a . The algorithm 505 utilizes stored and retrieved information from adatabase 514. Data stored from the primary processor can be housed indatabase 514.

After Algorithm 505 determines that there has been a significantdetrimental change in health parameters detected 506, the systemdetermines if prohibiting factors apply 511. A prohibiting factor can beeither user initiated for any reason, or it can be automaticallydetermined. An example of a prohibiting factor could be a patientwanting to disable the device or system for privacy reasons. Anotherexample could be that the patient lives with a chronic illness that willroutinely set off alert 508 (in this case, the prohibiting factor couldbe selective for certain algorithmic findings or sensors). A prohibitingfactor will cause the device to do nothing at element 507 if asignificant detrimental change in health parameters has been detected.

If no prohibiting factors apply, alert 508 is triggered as previouslydescribed in FIG. 5a , however, depending on how high the confidencelevel 512 is of algorithm 505, at least two different pathways can betaken (the number of pathways may increase commensurate with how manycategories of confidence there are, for example there may existconfidence levels 1 through 10 each with different associated actions).If confidence is high, a communication channel is opened to call station509. If confidence is low, the patient will be prompted with patientchoice 513. The goal of the confidence intervals is two fold: first, itis valuable information that can be sent to the call station so adispatcher will know how sure the algorithm is, which could be usefulfor limiting false alarms, and second, it allows the patient moreopportunities to make the call themselves, rather than automating thecare when someone may not feel they need to go to the hospital—it givesthem some leeway of independence and control.

Patient choice 513 can provide an opportunity for a patient to respondto alert 508 in any form the apparatus or primary processor will allow,such as by making a selection on the apparatuses display (which can be atouch screen), by pressing button 9 of FIG. 1 or 12 of FIG. 2, or by anyother means. From this point, a patient can decline help, in which casenothing further is done, a patient can request help, in which they willbe put in communication with call station 509 of FIG. 5a , and if noaction is taken by the patient in a short time period (perhaps indicatedby display 3 of FIG. 1a ), they will automatically be put incommunication with call station 509 of FIG. 5a (in this last scenario,the assumption is that they are incapacitated). Through the possibletwo-way communication, a false alarm can still be indicated and thecommunication cancelled by call station 509 of FIG. 5a . Call station509 of FIG. 5a will review the data presented from the apparatus andsystem, and will make a determination with the patient whether or not toinitiate EMS activation 510. In some embodiments, call station 509 ofFIG. 5a can be skipped in its entirety, and EMS activation 510 can occurdirectly. It can again be seen in FIG. 5b as it was in FIG. 5a , that ifthe patient engages panic activation 408, the patient will immediatelybe placed in communication with call station 509 of FIG. 5a with aplethora of useful information provided to dispatchers from theapparatus and system. It should be apparent that omissions or deviationsfrom the systems, methods, processes, and apparatus mentioned in thispatent that have the same spirit will still be considered within thescope of this patent.

Using a heart sensor, such an ECG, the apparatus can detect theelectrical activity of the heart over time. FIG. 6 is a graphicalrepresentation of illustrative electrical activity of a heart during aheartbeat. Representation 600 may include a plot of the variation of theheart's electrical potential over time. A typical heartbeat may includeseveral variations of electrical potential, which may be classified intowaves and a complex. For example, representation 600 can include P wave601, QRS complex 602, and T wave 603. Some representations can inaddition include a U wave (not shown). The P wave can represent normalatrial depolarization, when the main electrical vector spreads from theright atrium to the left atrium. The shape and duration of the P wavecan be related to the size of the user's atrium (e.g., indicating atrialenlargement).

The QRS complex can correspond to the depolarization of the heartventricles, and can be separated into three distinct waves—a Q wave, anR wave, and an S wave. Because the ventricles contain more muscle massthan the atria, the QRS complex is larger than the P wave. In addition,the His-Purkinje system of the heart, which can increase the conductionvelocity to coordinate the depolarization of the ventricles, can causethe QRS complex to look “spiked” rather than rounded. The duration ofthe QRS complex of a healthy heart can be in the range of approximately60 to approximately 100 milliseconds (“ms”), but can vary due toabnormalities of conduction.

The duration, amplitude, and morphology of each of the Q, R and S wavescan vary significantly for users having cardiac diseases or cardiacirregularities. For example, a Q wave that is greater than ⅓ of theheight of the R wave, or greater than approximately 100 ms in durationcan be indicative of a myocardial infarction.

Representation 600 can include a PR interval 604 and ST segment 605. PRinterval 604 can be measured from the beginning of P wave 601 to thebeginning of QRS complex 602. PR interval 604 can typically lastapproximately 120 to approximately 200 ms. PR interval 604 having adifferent duration can indicate one or more defects in the heart, suchas a first degree heart block (e.g., PR interval 604 lasting more thanapproximately 200 ms), a pre-excitation syndrome via an accessorypathway that leads to early activation of the ventricles (e.g., PRinterval 604 lasts less than approximately 120 ms), or another type ofheart block (e.g., PR interval 604 is variable). ST segment 605 can bemeasured from QRS complex 602 to T wave 603, for example starting at thejunction between QRS complex 602 and ST segment 605 and ending at thebeginning of T wave 603. ST segment 605 can typically last fromapproximately 80 to approximately 120 ms, and normally has a slightupward concavity.

T wave 603 can represent the repolarization or recovery of theventricles. The interval from the beginning of the QRS complex to theapex of the T wave can be referred to as the absolute refractory period.The last half of the T wave can be referred to as the relativerefractory period or vulnerable period.

QT interval 606, which can represent the total time needed for theventricles to depolarize and repolarize, can be measured from thebeginning of QRS complex 602 to the end of T wave 603. QT interval 606can typically last between approximately 300 and approximately 1050 ms,and can vary based on the condition of the user's heart rate. Severalcorrection factors have been developed to correct QT interval 606 forthe heart rate.

Referring to FIG. 7, system 700 shows wearable apparatus 1 (watchembodiment) and/or apparatus 301 (eyeglasses embodiment) incommunication with primary processor 702 (smartphone) and/or primaryprocessor 701 (cloud/network based service), as well as with each other,in any combination, for any purpose, in any wired or wirelesscommunication medium available. In this embodiment, primary processor701 is a cloud/network service, or a remote computer of some sort, andprimary processor 702 is a smartphone, or some other device that canremain near the user, but has significantly larger processing and energyparameters than a wearable apparatus, as they will be receivingoffloaded signals for analysis and processing by the algorithm to make adetermination as to whether significant detrimental changes in healthparameters have occurred that would necessitate EMS activation.

System 700, can relate to any primary processor, or any apparatus, thatis within the scope and spirit of this application. In addition, twoprimary processing units 701 and 702, and two apparatuses 1 and 301, areshown in FIG. 7 as an example of how it is also possible to have two ormore apparatuses and/or two or more primary processors as part of system700. In the most basic embodiment, it is possible to use only oneapparatus to initiate panic activation 408 (FIG. 5a ), regardless of theuse of any biometric sensor(s) 6, which is an improvement over priorart.

Referring to FIG. 8 graph 800, which shows an embodiment of how signalprocessing 504 can be carried out. Graph 800 illustrates ahypothetically noisy ECG signal over time, before signal processing 504,which is not immediately distinguishable (as a result of the noise).However, certain points with a high level of confidence may bedistinguishable, such as distinguishable point 802, as well as otherpoints circled. In this example, distinguishable point 802 is also anexample of part of a P wave 601 from FIG. 6. These points are rememberedby the primary processor and are analyzed with the expectation that theECG should have characteristic signature components that relate to FIG.6, for each heartbeat.

The preferred embodiment for reaching higher confidence indistinguishability would employ a method to average results over time tosee where different voltage points cluster around a model of oneheartbeat 801. It is more likely that points that cluster more oftenrepresent true points on the ECG, and are not noise artifacts. Everyheartbeat provides a chance to integrate more data, and to refine and/oriteratively save a snapshot 515 of FIG. 5 of a model of one heartbeat801 that is being constructed to later compare and find moment-to-momentchanges (retrieved from database 514 of FIG. 5).

Distinguishable point 802 is then extracted from the noisy graph 800,and becomes distinguishable point 803 (circled), which is placed amongother distinguishable points (also circled on model of one heartbeat801), in order to build an averaged model of one heartbeat 801, which isthe patient's current ECG averaged over multiple heartbeats condensedinto one beat. Time point R 806 and time point S 807 (for example 10,000and 13,000 milliseconds, respectively, which represent three heartbeatsat 60 beats per minute), are illustrated in graph 800. Time point M 808and time point N 809, which will always represent how long one beattakes from start to end, respectively (for example 0 and 1,000milliseconds, respectively, which represent one heartbeat at 60 beatsper minute), are illustrated in model of one heartbeat 801. Depending onthe clarity of the signal input from elements 501-503 of FIG. 5a , andthe success of signal processing 504 of FIG. 5a to create suitableinformation for algorithm 505 of FIG. 5b , time point R 806 and timepoint S 807 may differ significantly from the example, and are dynamic.From all of the gathered points with high confidence, it is relativelyeasy to make accurate assumptions as to how the pieces are connected, ifan entire ECG cannot be constructed. Points 805 represent the assumeddata points that connect distinguishable points 803 together and form acomplete ECG model of one heartbeat 801, but can not be clearlydistinguished from graph 800. In certain exemplary embodiments, signalsfrom other sensors (e.g., pulse oximeters, etc.) can be acquired over alength of time and averaged, and/or areas of high confidence can bedistinguished, stored, and analyzed and processed in an analogous mannerto the illustrated ECG signal.

Graph 800 is illustrative of how algorithm 505 of FIG. 5b uses model ofone heartbeat 801 as a snapshot 515 of FIG. 5b from a point in time tocompare to other stored snapshot(s) 515 of FIG. 5b of model of oneheartbeat 801 from different points in time.

The time interval a snapshot 515 of FIG. 5b covers can changesignificantly and dynamically as dictated by signal processing 504 ofFIG. 5a and algorithm 505 of FIG. 5a . Snapshot(s) 515 of FIG. 5b oftime points may be compared to each other to determine moment-to-momentchanges, snapshot(s) 515 of FIG. 5b may be compared to the baselineestablished in calibration 406 of FIG. 4, snapshot(s) 515 of FIG. 5b maybe compared to recognized population norms (or recognized populationnorms for detrimental conditions) which may also be stored assnapshot(s) 515 of FIG. 5b , and if available, snapshot(s) 515 of FIG.5b may be compared to previous snapshot(s) 515 of FIG. 5b taken in thepast around the events leading up to (and including) when alert 508 ofFIG. 5b was triggered. Whether a snapshot 515 of FIG. 5b is calculatedor determined to be significantly similar to a snapshot 515 of FIG. 5bcontaining detrimental changes in health parameters, or whether asnapshot 515 of FIG. 5b is calculated or determined to be significantlydifferent from a baseline snapshot 515 of FIG. 5b , algorithm 505 ofFIG. 5b will trigger alert 508 of FIG. 5b , etc. Certain exemplaryembodiments can also comprise other techniques similar in spirit tothose described.

Those skilled in the art will notice that in this specific exampleillustrated in FIG. 8 of model of one heartbeat 801, the patient appearsto be having a ST elevation myocardial infarction (“STEMI”) (an exampleof a detrimental health state), which is especially noticeable in Region811. Region 811 shows ST elevation. Element 810 is an area of graph 800was ruled to be “true” and was used to construct a representativeheartbeat for 801

Referring to FIG. 9 is set of graphs 900, which shows another embodimentof how signal processing 504 of FIG. 5a can be carried out. Graph 901shows a photoplethysmogram (PPG), which can be obtained by using a pulseoximeter, a laser Doppler flowmeter, and/or a similar sensor, etc. Graph800 from FIG. 8 again illustrates a hypothetically noisy ECG signal fromtime point R to time point S, before signal processing 504 of FIG. 5a ,which is not immediately distinguishable (as a result of the noise).Graph 902 is a reconstructed ECG from techniques described below.

In the preferred embodiment, it is particularly useful to combine two ormore types of sensors, to yield more accurate data. The combination ofECG and PPG sensor data can yield especially useful information. Interms of PPG sensor data, it is well known that the time distance fromfirst PPG peak 903, to second PPG peak 904 is known as the peak-to-peaktime of the PPG, and is highly correlated to the duration of aheartbeat. There have been several advancements in recent years toimprove a PPG's ability in detecting heart rate, such as Sun, et. al[1].

The duration of a heartbeat is generally considered to be the timebetween R wave peak 905, and consecutive R wave peak 906. In the eventthat the ECG is noisy, which is the case in graph 800, the distancebetween R wave peak 905 and R wave peak 906 can be accuratelyextrapolated by easily measuring the distance between PPG peaks 903 and904 (based on their overlapping and known offset alignment, relative toone another). This is valuable information because an algorithm can lookfor the R waves (the most detectable part of an ECG due to the greatestamplitude) within graph 800 that correspond with the period that wasdetermined from PPG peak 903 and PPG peak 904, which will assist signalprocessing 5010 of FIG. 5a . In addition, as the electrical signal ofthe heart (detected by the ECG) creates the mechanical phenomena of theheart pushing blood (as detected by PPG), it is known that R wave peak905 will precede PPG peak 903. However, because of this phenomenon andthe periodicity of a heartbeat, it is important to point out that R wavepeak 906 will occur between PPG peaks 903 and 904, and in addition, Rwave peak 906 will precede PPG peak 904, which greatly assists signalprocessing 504.

Combining signal processing techniques, where applicable, can improvethe signal to noise ratio, and the ability of signal processing 504 andalgorithm 505 of FIG. 5a to determine if a significant detrimentalchange in health related parameters has occurred. In many ways, signalprocessing 504 and algorithm 505 of FIG. 5a work synergisticallytogether, where signal processing 504 and algorithm 505 of FIG. 5a candynamically interchange their process order, for example signalprocessing 504 may occur first, and then algorithm 505, or alternativelyalgorithm 505 may occur first and then signal processing 504 can follow,as illustrated in FIG. 5a and FIG. 5b with bi-directional arrows betweensignal processing 504 and algorithm 505. Furthermore, other signalprocessing techniques may be used to achieve the same spirit of theapplication.

The techniques illustrated in set of graphs 900 and graph 800 can beapplied to data retrieved from any type of biometric sensor (such as alaser Doppler flowmeter, pulse oximeter, etc.), not just an ECG sensor,or the respective sensor discussed in the detailed description of theapplication, or any other type of sensor.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an informationdevice 10000, which in certain operative embodiments can comprise, forexample, electronic area 14 of FIG. 1a and/or peripheral devices coupledthereto. Information device 10000 can comprise any of numerous circuitsand/or components, such as for example, one or more network interfaces10100, one or more processors 10200, one or more memories 10300containing instructions 10400, one or more input/output (I/O) devices10500, and/or one or more user interfaces 10600 coupled to I/O device10500, etc.

In certain exemplary embodiments, via one or more user interfaces 10600,such as a graphical user interface, a user can view a rendering ofinformation related to user health information and/or any of theproducts, services, methods, and/or information described herein.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of an exemplary embodiment of a method 11000. Atactivity 11100, an apparatus wearable by a user can be produced. Theapparatus can comprise:

-   -   a biometric sensor;    -   a signal filter constructed to average signals from the        biometric sensor; and/or    -   a wireless transmitter/receiver constructed to:        -   receive information concerning an established confidence            interval for the averaged signals; and/or        -   receive information concerning predicted timing of a signal            from the biometric sensor based upon a pulse oximeter            obtained via one or more of:            -   the pulse oximeter of the user bounded by a QRS complex;                and/or            -   electrical waves of the QRS complex in consideration of                information from a photoplethysmogram.

At activity 11200, the apparatus can be activated, such as with anemergency medical system. At activity 11300, via information obtainedfrom a motion sensor, movements of a body part of the user can becompensated for.

At activity 11400, snapshots can be compared, such as via a processor. Asnapshot of a model of a heartbeat of the user obtained from thebiometric sensor can be compared with a recognized population norm todecide if a significant detrimental change in health related parametershas occurred. A snapshot of a model of a heartbeat of the user obtainedfrom the biometric sensor can be compared with a previous snapshotobtained from the user to decide if a significant detrimental change inhealth related parameters has occurred.

At activity 11500, data can be transmitted, such as via a wirelesstransmitter/receiver. For example, data can be transmitted from thebiometric sensor at a predetermined time after a prior transmission.Data can be transmitted from the biometric sensor responsive to adetermination that a count of readings from the biometric sensor exceedsa predetermined threshold. Compressed data can be transmitted from thebiometric sensor.

At activity 11600, data can be received, such as via a wirelesstransmitter/receiver. For example, a request can be received from aprocessor for data required to reconstruct an accurate snapshot. Therequest can be based upon an analysis of minimal received data and adetermination that the minimal received data is insufficient toreconstruct the accurate snapshot.

Certain exemplary embodiments can comprise requesting snapshotinformation stored in a database. Certain exemplary embodiments cancomprise, via information obtained from a motion sensor, compensatingfor movements of a body part of said user.

WORKS CITED

-   Xuxue, S., et al. Robust heart beat detection from    photoplethysmography interlaced with motion artifacts based on    Empirical Mode Decomposition. Biomedical and Health Informatics    (BHI), 2012 IEEE-EMBS International Conference on, (2012).

Definitions

When the following terms are used substantively herein, the accompanyingdefinitions apply. These terms and definitions are presented withoutprejudice, and, consistent with the application, the right to redefinethese terms during the prosecution of this application or anyapplication claiming priority hereto is reserved. For the purpose ofinterpreting a claim of any patent that claims priority hereto, eachdefinition (or redefined term if an original definition was amendedduring the prosecution of that patent), functions as a clear andunambiguous disavowal of the subject matter outside of that definition.

-   -   a—at least one.    -   account—to determine a cause.    -   accurate—substantially consistent with an actual value.    -   activate—to register with.    -   activity—an action, act, step, and/or process or portion        thereof.    -   adapted to—made suitable or fit for a specific use or situation.    -   adapter—a device used to effect operative compatibility between        different parts of one or more pieces of an apparatus or system.    -   against—into contact with.    -   algorithm—a set of rules followed in determinations.    -   analysis—determining one or more features of something via        careful examination.    -   analyze—to examine carefully and in detail.    -   and/or—either in conjunction with or in alternative to.    -   apparatus—an appliance or device for a particular purpose.    -   arm—each of the two upper limbs of the human body from the        shoulder to the hand.    -   associate—to join, connect together, and/or relate.    -   automatically—acting or operating in a manner essentially        independent of external influence or control. For example, an        automatic light switch can turn on upon “seeing” a person in its        view, without the person manually operating the light switch.    -   average—to smooth a signal in a manner such that the signal        magnitude approximates a mean of a plurality of signal values.    -   average population—a large number of people that in some sense        are representative of a user.    -   backbone network—a “transit” network often made up of        long-distance telephone trunk lines and/or other wired and/or        wireless links such as microwave and satellite links for use in        transmitting large amounts of data simultaneously between host        computer systems connected to the Internet. Normal communicated        data typically neither originates nor terminates in a backbone        network.    -   bandpass filter—an electrical circuit constructed to attenuate        substantially all frequencies except those of a specific band,        which it amplifies.    -   base—a foundation for a determination.    -   baseline value—a standard magnitude of a parameter.    -   belong—to fit in a specified category or group.    -   between—with reference to a differentiation involving two or        more things being considered together.    -   biometric—constructed to measure a physical characteristic.    -   biometric sensor—a sensor constructed to measure a physical        characteristic. Exemplary biometric sensors comprise, for        example, heart rate monitor, pulse transit time sensor, pulse        oximeters, temperature sensors (e.g., thermometers),        galvanometers, breathalyzers, carbon monoxide (CO) sensor, blood        sugar, hygrometer, altimeter, barometer, gps detector,        accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, EMG (electromyographic        sensor), fingerprint reader, force transducer, audio sensor        (e.g., microphone), proximity sensor, human velocity sensor,        ambient light sensor, blood pressure sensor, flowmeters (e.g.,        laser Doppler flowmeters) or any combination thereof.    -   boost—to increase.    -   bound—kept within limits.    -   brain wave—an electrical impulse in the brain.    -   button—a knob or icon on a piece of electrical or electronic        equipment that is pressed to operate it.    -   calibrate—to correlate readings of an instrument with those of a        standard in order to check the instrument's accuracy.    -   calibration profile for health parameters—a patterned set of        correlated readings for a user for a particular physically        measured value.    -   can—is capable of, in at least some embodiments.    -   cancel—to signal that an event will not take place.    -   capacitive—constructed to measure capacitance of a part of a        human body.    -   capture—to obtain.    -   case—a container constructed to hold something.    -   cause—to bring about.    -   certainty—the state of being statistically confident.    -   change—to become different.    -   charging mechanism—an electrical circuit constructed to provide        electrical energy to a battery system.    -   circuit—an electrically conductive pathway and/or a        communications connection established across two or more        switching devices comprised by a network and between        corresponding end systems connected to, but not comprised by the        network.    -   communicate—to exchange information.    -   compare—to determine differences between two or more things.    -   compensate—to adjust for something.    -   compress—to apply a compression algorithm to electronic data so        that the electronic data takes up less space when stored on a        memory device.    -   comprising—including but not limited to.    -   concerning—pertaining to.    -   confidence interval—a statistical interval estimate of a        population parameter.    -   confidence level—where confidence intervals are constructed        across many separate data analyses of repeated experiments, the        proportion of such intervals that contain the true value of a        statistical parameter.    -   configure—to make suitable or fit for a specific use or        situation.    -   connect—to join or fasten together.    -   constructed to—built for a specific use or situation.    -   contact—to substantially directly touch.    -   convert—to transform, adapt, and/or change.    -   count—a total number of.    -   coupleable—capable of being joined, connected, and/or linked        together.    -   coupling—linking in some fashion.    -   data—distinct pieces of information, usually formatted in a        special or predetermined way and/or organized to express        concepts.    -   database—an organized collection of data stored on a memory        device.    -   data structure—an organization of a collection of data that        allows the data to be manipulated effectively and/or a logical        relationship among data elements that is designed to support        specific data manipulation functions. A data structure can        comprise meta data to describe the properties of the data        structure. Examples of data structures can include: array,        dictionary, graph, hash, heap, linked list, matrix, object,        queue, ring, stack, tree, and/or vector.    -   decision tree—a tree algorithm in which the selection of each        branch requires that some type of logical decision be made.    -   demographical information—data concerning a section of a        population sharing common characteristics, such as age, sex,        class, etc.    -   detect—to determine the existence of something.    -   difference—a way in which things are not the same.    -   define—to establish the outline, form, or structure of.    -   determine—to obtain, calculate, decide, deduce, and/or        ascertain.    -   deviation—the difference between one of a set of values and some        fixed value.    -   device—a machine, manufacture, and/or collection thereof.    -   disturbance—a change in measured data of a physical system.    -   electrocardiogram—a recording of electrical activity of a human        heart.    -   electroencephalogram—a non-invasive method to record electrical        activity of the brain along a scalp; EEG measures voltage        fluctuations resulting from ionic current flows within neurons        of a brain.    -   emergency medical system—a type of emergency service dedicated        to providing medical care and/or transport to medical care.    -   energy—power derived from the utilization of physical or        chemical resources.    -   entity—a person or organization that performs a function.    -   estimate—to calculate and/or determine approximately and/or        tentatively.    -   extremity—a limb, such as a leg or arm or a part thereof (e.g.,        an ankle).    -   filter—a device that allows signals with certain properties,        such as signals lying in a certain frequency range, to pass        while blocking the passage of others.    -   finger—each of the four slender jointed parts attached to either        hand (or five, if the thumb is included).    -   generate—to create, produce, give rise to, and/or bring into        existence.    -   global positioning system—a space-based satellite navigation        system that provides location and time information in all        weather conditions, anywhere on or near the Earth where there is        an unobstructed line of sight to four or more GPS satellites.    -   glucometer—a medical device constructed to determine an        approximate concentration of glucose in the blood.    -   grip—to take a firm hold of.    -   group—a number of persons considered together as being related        in some way.    -   haptic—involving the human sense of kinesthetic movement and/or        the human sense of touch. Among the many potential haptic        experiences are numerous sensations, body-positional differences        in sensations, and time-based changes in sensations that are        perceived at least partially in non-visual, non-audible, and        non-olfactory manners, including the experiences of tactile        touch (being touched), active touch, grasping, pressure,        friction, traction, slip, stretch, force, torque, impact,        puncture, vibration, motion, acceleration, jerk, pulse,        orientation, limb position, gravity, texture, gap, recess,        viscosity, pain, itch, moisture, temperature, thermal        conductivity, and thermal capacity.    -   head—a portion of the human body located above the neck.    -   health parameters—a variable related to the physical well-being        of a human.    -   heartbeat—a pulsation of the heart, including one substantially        complete systole and diastole.    -   heart condition—a medical issue with the cardiac muscle of a        human.    -   heart rate monitor—a system constructed to measure a frequency        of heartbeats.    -   hydrophobic coating—a substantially water-proof covering.    -   indication—a degree marked by an instrument.    -   individually—one at a time.    -   information—knowledge gained through study, measurement,        communication, research, and/or instruction, etc.    -   information device—any device capable of processing data and/or        information, such as any general purpose and/or special purpose        computer, such as a personal computer, workstation, server,        minicomputer, mainframe, supercomputer, computer terminal,        laptop, wearable computer, and/or Personal Digital Assistant        (PDA), mobile terminal, Bluetooth device, communicator, “smart”        phone (such as a Treo-like device), messaging service (e.g.,        Blackberry) receiver, pager, facsimile, cellular telephone, a        traditional telephone, telephonic device, a programmed        microprocessor or microcontroller and/or peripheral integrated        circuit elements, an ASIC or other integrated circuit, a        hardware electronic logic circuit such as a discrete element        circuit, and/or a programmable logic device such as a PLD, PLA,        FPGA, or PAL, or the like, etc. In general any device on which        resides a finite state machine capable of implementing at least        a portion of a method, structure, and/or or graphical user        interface described herein may be used as an information device.        An information device can comprise components such as one or        more network interfaces, one or more processors, one or more        memories containing instructions, and/or one or more        input/output (I/O) devices, one or more user interfaces coupled        to an I/O device, etc.    -   input/output (I/O) device—any sensory-oriented input and/or        output device, such as an audio, visual, haptic, olfactory,        and/or taste-oriented device, including, for example, a monitor,        display, projector, overhead display, keyboard, keypad, mouse,        trackball, joystick, gamepad, wheel, touchpad, touch panel,        pointing device, microphone, speaker, video camera, camera,        scanner, printer, haptic device, vibrator, tactile simulator,        and/or tactile pad, potentially including a port to which an I/O        device can be attached or connected.    -   install—to connect or set in position and prepare for use.    -   insufficient—lacking something that is needed.    -   intense physical activity—something that a human does that        increases a heart rate by over fifty percent above a resting        heart rate.    -   internal defibrillator—a device implantable inside the body,        able to perform both cardioversion, defibrillation and pacing of        the heart.    -   laser Doppler flowmeter—a device that uses a Doppler shift in a        laser beam to measure a fluid flow velocity.    -   lead—an electrical connection such as a length of wire or metal        pad that comes from a device.    -   location—a particular position.    -   machine instructions—directions adapted to cause a machine, such        as an information device, to perform one or more particular        activities, operations, or functions. The directions, which can        sometimes form an entity called a “processor”, “kernel”,        “operating system”, “program”, “application”, “utility”,        “subroutine”, “script”, “macro”, “file”, “project”, “module”,        “library”, “class”, and/or “object”, etc., can be embodied as        machine code, source code, object code, compiled code, assembled        code, interpretable code, and/or executable code, etc., in        hardware, firmware, and/or software.    -   machine readable medium—a physical structure from which a        machine can obtain data and/or information. Examples include a        memory, punch cards, etc.    -   may—is allowed and/or permitted to, in at least some        embodiments.    -   measure—to ascertain an extent of.    -   measurement—an extent of a variable.    -   medical device mode—a user selectable functional state of a        system that is constructed to provide a medical diagnosis and/or        medical advice.    -   medical diagnosis—determining by examination the nature and        circumstances of a diseased condition. Exemplary medical        diagnoses comprise myocardial infarction, sudden cardiac death,        stroke, and/or seizure, etc.    -   medical information—data concerning the physical health of a        human.    -   medical legal orders—a legally binding instruction from a        patient concerning medical care.    -   memory device—an apparatus capable of storing analog or digital        information, such as instructions and/or data. Examples include        a non-volatile memory, volatile memory, Random Access Memory,        RAM, Read Only Memory, ROM, flash memory, magnetic media, a hard        disk, a floppy disk, a magnetic tape, an optical media, an        optical disk, a compact disk, a CD, a digital versatile disk, a        DVD, and/or a raid array, etc. The memory device can be coupled        to a processor and/or can store instructions adapted to be        executed by processor, such as according to an embodiment        disclosed herein.    -   method—a process, procedure, and/or collection of related        activities for accomplishing something.    -   minimal received data—information that has been determined to be        substantially a smallest quantity information to perform a        function.    -   model—a standard that can be used for a comparison.    -   motion—a bodily movement.    -   movement—an act of changing position.    -   network—a communicatively coupled plurality of nodes. A network        can be and/or utilize any of a wide variety of sub-networks,        such as a circuit switched, public-switched, packet switched,        data, telephone, telecommunications, video distribution, cable,        terrestrial, broadcast, satellite, broadband, corporate, global,        national, regional, wide area, backbone, packet-switched TCP/IP,        Fast Ethernet, Token Ring, public Internet, private, ATM,        multi-domain, and/or multi-zone sub-network, one or more        Internet service providers, and/or one or more information        devices, such as a switch, router, and/or gateway not directly        connected to a local area network, etc.    -   network interface—any device, system, or subsystem capable of        coupling an information device to a network. For example, a        network interface can be a telephone, cellular phone, cellular        modem, telephone data modem, fax modem, wireless transceiver,        Ethernet card, cable modem, digital subscriber line interface,        bridge, hub, router, or other similar device.    -   non-medical device mode—a user selectable functional state of a        system that is constructed to provide medical information but        not a medical diagnosis and/or medical advice.    -   notify—to give notice or report something.    -   obtain—to acquire.    -   pacemaker—an artificial device for stimulating the heart muscle        and regulating its contractions.    -   packet—a discrete instance of communication.    -   panic activation—a manual activation of a device indicative of a        medical problem being experienced by a user of the device.    -   partially—substantially less than totally.    -   past, family, and social history information—data concerning a        patient's past medical history, the past medical history of the        patient's family, and past and current activities involving the        patient and other people.    -   past medical history—information concerning one or more        characteristics of a patient, the characteristics comprising one        or more of general state of health (e.g. excellent, good, fair,        poor. Note any significant change from previous state), past        illnesses (e.g. cancer, heart disease, hypertension, diabetes),        hospitalizations, injuries, or accidents, surgeries, current        medications, allergies, immunizations, substance abuse, diet,        sleep, alternative therapies (e.g. acupuncture, massage, herbal        medicine, vitamins, and chiropractic), obstetric/gynecologic        history, birth history, and growth and development.    -   Peak-Peak interval—an elapsed time between successive peaks of a        signal.    -   photoplethysmogram—a volumetric measurement of a human organ.    -   plurality—the state of being plural and/or more than one.    -   population norm—a standard value for a large number of people.    -   power supply—an energy source for a device and/or system.    -   predetermined—established in advance.    -   predict—to determine in advance.    -   press—to apply pressure to.    -   PR interval—the period, measured in milliseconds, that extends        from the beginning of the P wave (the onset of atrial        depolarization) until the beginning of the QRS complex (the        onset of ventricular depolarization); it is normally between 120        and 200 ms in duration.    -   prior—preceding in time.    -   processor—a device and/or set of machine-readable instructions        for performing one or more predetermined tasks. A processor can        comprise any one or a combination of hardware, firmware, and/or        software. A processor can utilize mechanical, pneumatic,        hydraulic, electrical, magnetic, optical, informational,        chemical, and/or biological principles, signals, and/or inputs        to perform the task(s). In certain embodiments, a processor can        act upon information by manipulating, analyzing, modifying,        converting, transmitting the information for use by an        executable procedure and/or an information device, and/or        routing the information to an output device. A processor can        function as a central processing unit, local controller, remote        controller, parallel controller, and/or distributed controller,        etc. Unless stated otherwise, the processor can be a        general-purpose device, such as a microcontroller and/or a        microprocessor, such the Pentium IV series of microprocessor        manufactured by the Intel Corporation of Santa Clara, Calif. In        certain embodiments, the processor can be dedicated purpose        device, such as an Application Specific Integrated Circuit        (ASIC) or a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) that has been        designed to implement in its hardware and/or firmware at least a        part of an embodiment disclosed herein.    -   profile information—data concerning a user.    -   project—to calculate, estimate, or predict.    -   prompt—a message or symbol on a user interface requesting input        from a user.    -   provide—to furnish, supply, give, and/or make available.    -   pulse oximeter—an instrument constructed to measure oxygen        saturation of hemoglobin in a sample of blood.    -   photoplethysmogram—an optically obtained volumetric measurement        of an organ.    -   pulse wave—a kind of non-sinusoidal waveform that is similar to        a square wave, but does not have a symmetrical shape associated        with a perfect square wave.    -   P wave—an electrocardiogram pattern representing atrial        depolarization, which results in atrial contraction.    -   QRS complex—the combination of three of the graphical        deflections seen on an electrocardiogram.    -   QT interval—a measure of the time between the start of the Q        wave and the end of the T wave in the heart's electrical cycle.    -   reading—a signal indicative of a measured physical value.    -   receive—to get as a signal, take, acquire, and/or obtain.    -   recommend—to suggest, praise, commend, and/or endorse.    -   reconstruct—to form a model of from measured data.    -   relay—to retransmit a signal.    -   remote—far apart; separable by a distance of at least one mile.    -   render—to make perceptible to a human, for example as data,        commands, text, graphics, audio, video, animation, and/or        hyperlinks, etc., such as via any visual, audio, and/or haptic        means, such as via a display, monitor, electric paper, ocular        implant, cochlear implant, speaker, etc.    -   repeatedly—again and again; repetitively.    -   request—to express a desire for and/or ask for.    -   responsive—acting in reaction to a stimulus.    -   run—to move swiftly on foot.    -   selective—characterized by careful choice.    -   sensor—a device that detects events or changes in quantities and        provides a corresponding output, generally as an electrical or        optical signal.    -   set—a related plurality.    -   signal—information, such as machine instructions for activities        and/or one or more letters, words, characters, symbols, signal        flags, visual displays, and/or special sounds, etc. having        prearranged meaning, encoded as automatically detectable        variations in a physical variable, such as a pneumatic,        hydraulic, acoustic, fluidic, mechanical, electrical, magnetic,        optical, chemical, and/or biological variable, such as power,        energy, pressure, flowrate, viscosity, density, torque, impact,        force, frequency, phase, voltage, current, resistance,        magnetomotive force, magnetic field intensity, magnetic field        flux, magnetic flux density, reluctance, permeability, index of        refraction, optical wavelength, polarization, reflectance,        transmittance, phase shift, concentration, and/or temperature,        etc. Depending on the context, a signal and/or the information        encoded therein can be synchronous, asynchronous, hard        real-time, soft real-time, non-real time, continuously        generated, continuously varying, analog, discretely generated,        discretely varying, quantized, digital, broadcast, multicast,        unicast, transmitted, conveyed, received, continuously measured,        discretely measured, processed, encoded, encrypted, multiplexed,        modulated, spread, de-spread, demodulated, detected,        de-multiplexed, decrypted, and/or decoded, etc.    -   significant detrimental change—a determined difference in        measured physiological values that have been determined to have        an important negative consequence in human physiology.    -   smart blood pressure sensor—a device and/or system that measures        blood pressure via a plurality of sensors.    -   smart scale—a device and/or system constructed to weigh a person        and to wirelessly transmit a signal indicative of the measured        weight.    -   snapshot—a measured physiological data set obtained over a        predetermined time period.    -   standard—an object or value that bears a defined relationship to        a unit of measure used for calibration of measuring devices.    -   store—to place, hold, and/or retain data, typically in a memory.    -   stroke—the loss of brain function due to a disturbance in the        blood supply to the brain.    -   ST segment depression—a value determined by measuring the        vertical distance between the patient's trace and the        isoelectric line at a location approximately 2-3 millimeters        from the QRS complex.    -   ST segment elevation—an indicator of a myocardial infarction        (i.e., heart attack) determined to have occurred via a        measurement of a higher than normal connection between the QRS        complex and the T wave in an electrocardiogram.    -   submit—to present to an information device.    -   substantially—to a great extent or degree.    -   support—to bear the weight of, especially from below.    -   surround—to be substantially all around something.    -   system—a collection of mechanisms, devices, machines, articles        of manufacture, processes, data, and/or instructions, the        collection designed to perform one or more specific functions.    -   temporal region—the side of a human head posterior to the eyes.    -   time—a quantity measuring duration, usually with reference to a        periodic process such as the rotation of the earth or the        vibration of electromagnetic radiation emitted from certain        atoms.    -   time period—an interval of time.    -   touch—to contact.    -   transmission—a conveyance of data from one location to another.    -   transmit—to send as a signal, provide, furnish, and/or supply.    -   transmitter/receiver—a system constructed to send and acquire        signals.    -   user—a person wearing, and being monitored by, an apparatus.    -   user interface—any device for rendering information to a user        and/or requesting information from the user. A user interface        includes at least one of textual, graphical, audio, video,        animation, and/or haptic elements. A textual element can be        provided, for example, by a printer, monitor, display,        projector, etc. A graphical element can be provided, for        example, via a monitor, display, projector, and/or visual        indication device, such as a light, flag, beacon, etc. An audio        element can be provided, for example, via a speaker, microphone,        and/or other sound generating and/or receiving device. A video        element or animation element can be provided, for example, via a        monitor, display, projector, and/or other visual device. A        haptic element can be provided, for example, via a very low        frequency speaker, vibrator, tactile stimulator, tactile pad,        simulator, keyboard, keypad, mouse, trackball, joystick,        gamepad, wheel, touchpad, touch panel, pointing device, and/or        other haptic device, etc. A user interface can include one or        more textual elements such as, for example, one or more letters,        number, symbols, etc. A user interface can include one or more        graphical elements such as, for example, an image, photograph,        drawing, icon, window, title bar, panel, sheet, tab, drawer,        matrix, table, form, calendar, outline view, frame, dialog box,        static text, text box, list, pick list, pop-up list, pull-down        list, menu, tool bar, dock, check box, radio, hyperlink,        browser, button, control, palette, preview panel, color wheel,        dial, slider, scroll bar, cursor, status bar, stepper, and/or        progress indicator, etc. A textual and/or graphical element can        be used for selecting, programming, adjusting, changing,        specifying, etc. an appearance, background color, background        style, border style, border thickness, foreground color, font,        font style, font size, alignment, line spacing, indent, maximum        data length, validation, query, cursor type, pointer type,        autosizing, position, and/or dimension, etc. A user interface        can include one or more audio elements such as, for example, a        volume control, pitch control, speed control, voice selector,        and/or one or more elements for controlling audio play, speed,        pause, fast forward, reverse, etc. A user interface can include        one or more video elements such as, for example, elements        controlling video play, speed, pause, fast forward, reverse,        zoom-in, zoom-out, rotate, and/or tilt, etc. A user interface        can include one or more animation elements such as, for example,        elements controlling animation play, pause, fast forward,        reverse, zoom-in, zoom-out, rotate, tilt, color, intensity,        speed, frequency, appearance, etc. A user interface can include        one or more haptic elements such as, for example, elements        utilizing tactile stimulus, force, pressure, vibration, motion,        displacement, temperature, etc.    -   velocity—a time rate of change of position of a body in a        specified direction.    -   via—by way of and/or utilizing.    -   warning—information that alerts someone of a potentially harmful        condition.    -   wear—to have on one's body or a part of one's body.    -   wireless—using radio, microwaves, etc. (as opposed to wires or        cables) to transmit signals.    -   wrist—a joint connecting the hand with the forearm of a human.

Still other substantially and specifically practical and usefulembodiments will become readily apparent to those skilled in this artfrom reading the above-recited and/or herein-included detaileddescription and/or drawings of certain exemplary embodiments. It shouldbe understood that numerous variations, modifications, and additionalembodiments are possible, and accordingly, all such variations,modifications, and embodiments are to be regarded as being within thescope of this application.

Thus, regardless of the content of any portion (e.g., title, field,background, summary, description, abstract, drawing figure, etc.) ofthis application, unless clearly specified to the contrary, such as viaexplicit definition, assertion, or argument, with respect to any claim,whether of this application and/or any claim of any application claimingpriority hereto, and whether originally presented or otherwise:

-   -   there is no requirement for the inclusion of any particular        described or illustrated characteristic, function, activity, or        element, any particular sequence of activities, or any        particular interrelationship of elements;    -   no characteristic, function, activity, or element is        “essential”;    -   any elements can be integrated, segregated, and/or duplicated;    -   any activity can be repeated, any activity can be performed by        multiple entities, and/or    -   any activity can be performed in multiple jurisdictions; and    -   any activity or element can be specifically excluded, the        sequence of activities can vary, and/or the interrelationship of        elements can vary.

Moreover, when any number or range is described herein, unless clearlystated otherwise, that number or range is approximate. When any range isdescribed herein, unless clearly stated otherwise, that range includesall values therein and all subranges therein. For example, if a range of1 to 10 is described, that range includes all values therebetween, suchas for example, 1.1, 2.5, 3.335, 5, 6.179, 8.9999, etc., and includesall subranges therebetween, such as for example, 1 to 3.65, 2.8 to8.110, 1.93 to 9, etc.

When any claim element is followed by a drawing element number, thatdrawing element number is exemplary and non-limiting on claim scope. Noclaim of this application is intended to invoke paragraph six of 35 USC112 unless the precise phrase “means for” is followed by a gerund.

Any information in any material (e.g., a United States patent, UnitedStates patent application, book, article, etc.) that has beenincorporated by reference herein, is only incorporated by reference tothe extent that no conflict exists between such information and theother statements and drawings set forth herein. In the event of suchconflict, including a conflict that would render invalid any claimherein or seeking priority hereto, then any such conflicting informationin such material is specifically not incorporated by reference herein.

Accordingly, every portion (e.g., title, field, background, summary,description, abstract, drawing figure, etc.) of this application, otherthan the claims themselves, is to be regarded as illustrative in nature,and not as restrictive, and the scope of subject matter protected by anypatent that issues based on this application is defined only by theclaims of that patent.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: detecting a biometric dataof a user during a calibration period, the biometric data detected via adevice having at least one sensor secured to the user; calibrating thedevice based on the biometric data to yield a calibration profile of theuser; detecting new biometric data of the user via the sensor; comparingthe new biometric data with the calibration profile to determine whetherthe user has experienced a change; and generating an alert when the userhas experienced at least a detrimental change.
 2. The method of claim 1,wherein the calibrating of the device based on the biometric dataincludes comparing the biometric data to a population norm for thebiometric data detected.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein thecalibrating of the device based on the biometric data includesdetermining an average of the biometric data.
 4. The method of claim 1,wherein the calibrating of the device includes comparing the biometricdata of the user to a past medical history of the user, the past medicalhistory input into the device via a user interface.
 5. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising: instructing the user not to move for abaseline portion of the calibration period; instructing the user toperform a physical activity for an active portion of the calibrationperiod; determining whether the user is performing the physicalactivity; and wherein the calibrating of the device is based on thebiometric data detected during the active portion of the calibrationperiod when it is determined that the user is performing the physicalactivity.
 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the determining of whetherthe user is performing the physical activity is determined via a motionsensor.
 7. The method of claim 5, wherein the determining of whether theuser is performing the physical activity is determined via user inputinto the device via a user interface.
 8. The method of claim 1, whereinthe alert includes at least one of an audible alarm, a visual queue, avibration, a text message, or a phone call.
 9. The method of claim 1,wherein the generating of the alert includes initiating a communicationbetween the device and a third party.
 10. The method of claim 9, whereinthe communication to the third party includes two-way audiocommunication with the third party.
 11. The method of claim 9, furthercomprising: canceling the alert by making a selection on a display ofthe device to cancel the communication to the third party.
 12. Themethod of claim 9, wherein the communication to the third party includesa one-way transmission to initiate emergency medical services.
 13. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the device is (i) an electrocardiogramsensor, and (ii) operable to couple to the user in at least twolocations.
 14. The method of claim 1, wherein the device is configuredto monitor a heart rate of the user.
 15. The method of claim 1, whereinthe device is configured to monitor blood pressure of the user.
 16. Themethod of claim 1, wherein determining whether a change is detrimentalincludes (i) determining a confidence level associated with the newbiometric data, and (ii) determining a deviation of the new biometricdata from the calibration profile based upon the confidence level. 16.The method of claim 1, wherein the device is configured to (i) detectdata from a plurality of sensors to account for disturbances or to boostdata certainty, (ii) render the new biometric data from the sensor overa determined time period, and (ii) render a deviation of the newbiometric data from a baseline value.
 17. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising: processing the new biometric data, via a processor, togenerate one or more processed signals; determining a confidence levelbased on the processed signals; and determining whether the user hasexperienced the detrimental change based on the confidence level. 18.The method of claim 1, wherein, the at least one sensor includes aplurality of sensors; and the device is configured to use data receivedfrom the sensors to account for disturbances and to boost datacertainty.